Intelligent electronic footwear and logic for navigation assistance by automated tactile, audio, and visual feedback

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/066,305, which was filed on Dec. 15, 2022, is now allowed, and is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/404,290, which was filed on Aug. 17, 2021, is now U.S. Pat. No. 11,553,754 B2, and is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/874,944, which was filed on May 15, 2020, is now U.S. Pat. No. 11,122,852 B2, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/809,749, which was filed on Mar. 5, 2020, is now U.S. Pat. No. 11,058,166 B2, and is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/414,353, which was filed on May 16, 2019, is now U.S. Pat. No. 10,681,954 B2, and is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/114,648, which was filed on Aug. 28, 2018, is now U.S. Pat. No. 10,334,906 B1, and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/678,796, which was filed on May 31, 2018, and is now expired. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/874,944, is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/561,324, which was filed on Sep. 5, 2019, is now U.S. Pat. No. 10,674,783 B2, and is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/220,403, which was filed on Dec. 14, 2018, is now U.S. Pat. No. 10,441,020 B1, and is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/114,632, which was filed on Aug. 28, 2018, is now U.S. Pat. No. 10,178,890 B1, and also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/678,796. All of the foregoing applications are incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties and for all purposes.

The present disclosure relates generally to wearable electronic devices. More specifically, aspects of this disclosure relate to systems, methods, and devices for enabling automated features of intelligent electronic footwear and apparel.

Articles of footwear, such as shoes, boots, slippers, sandals, and the like, are generally composed of two primary elements: an upper for securing the footwear to a user's foot; and a sole structure for providing subjacent support for the foot. Uppers may be fabricated from a variety of materials—including textiles, foams, polymers, natural and synthetic leathers, etc. —that are stitched, welded, or adhesively bonded together to form a shell or harness for securely receiving a foot. For sandals and slippers, the upper may have an open toe or open heel construction or, optionally, may be generally limited to a series of straps that extend over the instep and, in some designs, around the ankle. Conversely, boot and shoe designs incorporate a full upper with a closed toe and heel construction to enclose therein the user's foot. An ankle opening through a rear quarter portion of the upper provides access to the footwear's interior, facilitating entry and removal of the foot into and from the upper. A shoelace or strap may be utilized to secure the foot within the upper.

The sole structure is generally attached to a lower portion of the upper, positioned between the user's foot and the ground. In many articles of footwear, including boots and athletic shoes, the sole structure is a layered construction that generally incorporates a comfort-enhancing insole, an impact-mitigating midsole, and a surface-contacting outsole. The insole, which may be located partially or entirely within the upper, is a thin and compressible member that provides a contact surface for the underside “plantar region” of the user's foot. By comparison, the midsole is mounted underneath the insole, forming a middle layer of the sole structure. In addition to attenuating ground reaction forces, the midsole may help to control foot motion and impart stability. Secured to the underside of the midsole is an outsole that forms the ground-contacting portion of the footwear. The outsole is usually fashioned from a durable and wear-resistant material that includes a tread pattern for improving traction.

Presented herein are intelligent electronic footwear with attendant control logic for enabling automated footwear capabilities, methods for making and methods for using such footwear, and control systems for provisioning automated features of intelligent electronic footwear. By way of example, there is presented an Internet of Adaptive Apparel and Footwear (IoAAF) system that wirelessly communicates with an intelligent electronic shoe (IES) to provision communication between the IES and: (1) a wireless-enabled device (footwear-to-device (F2D)); (2) a third-party IES (footwear-to-footwear (F2F)); (3) a motor vehicle (footwear-to-vehicle (F2V)); (4) an intelligent transportation or other infrastructure system (footwear-to-infrastructure (F2I)); and/or (5) a grid, network, pedestrian, etc. (footwear-to-everything (F2X)). In a representative implementation, an IES is equipped with a detection tag, such as a radio frequency (RF) transponder, that receives an incoming prompt signal. Prompt signals may be broadcast by a transmitter-detector module mounted to a stationary structure, such as a building, lamp post or traffic signal pole, etc., or to a moving structure, such as a person, bicycle, Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Level 3, 4 or 5 autonomous vehicle, etc.

An IES detection tag may reply to the incoming prompt signal, which may have an RF power with a first frequency, by retransmitting the incoming signal as a transparent output signal, which may have an RF power with a second frequency. The transponder may be outfit with a frequency filter that limits incoming signals to those with the first frequency, a frequency converter that converts the incoming signal into the transparent output signal, and an amplifier that intensifies the output signal based on the incoming signal. Using vehicle-mounted or structure-mounted RF transmitter-detector modules to sweep an upcoming or surrounding area for response signals output by an IES transponder facilitates pedestrian collision avoidance by providing advance warning prior to field of view recognition.

By placing a detection tag on an IES and automating communication between the IES detection tag and a complementary transmitter-detector mounted on a vehicle, street pole, nearby building, etc., the networked IoAAF system allows the connected parties to “see ahead” of an impending collision by eliminating the need for direct line-of-sight sensing and provides upcoming “awareness” before the IES is in close proximity to the vehicle. In effect, the IoAAF system architecture helps to eliminate false negatives caused by standard sensor hardware being unable to effectively monitor pedestrians concealed at blind corners or behind other visual obstructions. Collision avoidance can be further enhanced by automating an audible, visible, and/or tactile warning to the pedestrian via the IES or by altering pedestrian flow through modulation of crosswalk signal timing. In addition to enabling pedestrian safety recognition, disclosed IoAAF systems can be employed in a manufacturing facility, e.g., to prevent robot-borne injury to assembly line workers, in a storage facility, e.g., to avert collision between a worker and a forklift or automated guided vehicle (AGV), or at a road construction site, e.g., to protect construction workers from passing vehicles. User movement—start, stop, left, right, speed up, slow down, etc.—may be governed via selective actuation of audio, visual, and tactile feedback devices resident to the IES.

For F2V and F2I applications, the IoAAF system can automate communication with the smart footwear/apparel, e.g., to conduct a pedestrian collision threat assessment based on a myriad of available data. For instance, the F2I system may conduct a pedestrian collision threat assessment prior to line-of-sight between the moving object and IES user by aggregating, fusing, and analyzing: IES-generated user dynamics data (e.g., location, velocity, trajectory, accel./decel., etc.); user behavioral data (e.g., historical behavior at particular corner of intersection, historical behavior at intersections generally, historical behavior in current surrounding conditions, etc.); environmental data (e.g., intersection with red light vs. green light, residential vs. urban setting, inclement weather conditions vs. optimal driving conditions); crowd-sourced data (dynamics and behavior of other pedestrians near the IES user whom are also wearing intelligent footwear/apparel). Interoperable component communication is typically wireless and bi-directional, with data being delivered to and from infrastructure components over an ad hoc network e.g., using dedicated short-range communication (DSRC). Traffic management supervision systems can use IES, infrastructure, and vehicle data to set variable speed limits and adjust traffic signal phase and timing.

To enable wireless communications between an IES and a remote computing node, the IES may piggyback a communication session established by the user's smartphone, handheld computing device, or other portable electronic device with wireless communications capabilities. Alternatively, the IES may operate as a standalone device with a resident wireless communications device that is packaged within the shoe structure. Other peripheral hardware may include a resident controller, shortwave antenna, rechargeable battery, resident memory, SIM card, etc., all of which are housed inside the shoe structure. An IES may be equipped with a human-machine interface (HMI) that allows the user to interact with the footwear and/or the IoAAF system. For instance, one or more electroactive polymer (EAP) sensors may be woven into or formed as patches mounted on the shoe structure and operable to receive user inputs that allow the user to control operational aspects of the IES. Likewise, any of the attendant operations for executing an automated footwear feature may be executed locally via the IES controller or may be offboarded in a distributing computing fashion for execution by the smartphone, handheld computing device, IoAAF system, or any combination thereof.

As yet a further option, execution of any one or more of the herein described footwear features may initially require security authentication of a user via the IES controller and/or an IoAAF system server computer. For instance, a distributed array of sensors within the shoe structure communicates with the IES controller to perform biometric validation, such as confirming a user's weight (e.g., via pressure sensors), shoe size (e.g., via Electro Adaptive Reactive Lacing (EARL)), toe print (e.g., via an optical fingerprint sensor), gait profile, or other suitable method. As an extension of this concept, any of the foregoing sensing devices may be employed as a binary (ON/OFF) switch to confirm the IES is actually on a user's foot when attempting to execute an automated feature. Failure to authenticate, validate, or confirm user presence may result in the IES being rendered inoperable and/or transmission of an electronic notification to a registered owner or the IoAAF system that unauthorized use has been detected.

Provisioning wireless data exchanges to facilitate execution of an automated feature may require the IES be registered with the IoAAF system. For instance, a user may record an IES serial number with the IoAAF system, which will then issue a validation key to a personal account, e.g., a “digital locker” operating on the user's smartphone, tablet, PC, or laptop, to provide additional authentication. Registration may be completed manually, e.g., via the user, or digitally, e.g., via a barcode or near-field communication (NFC) tag on the shoe. A unique virtual shoe may be assigned to an IES and stored, for example, in the digital locker. Each virtual shoe may be backed by a blockchain security technology designed to help guarantee uniqueness and authenticity, such as a cryptographic hash function, a trusted timestamp, correlating transaction data, etc. Additional information regarding cryptographic digital assets for articles of footwear can be found, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 10,505,726 B1, to Christopher Andon, et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

While described with reference to an article of footwear as a representative application for the novel concepts presented herein, it is envisioned that many of the disclosed options and features may be applied to other wearable apparel, including clothing, headgear, eyewear, wrist wear, neck wear, leg wear, and the like. It is also envisioned that the disclosed features be implemented as part of an augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) device or system that is operable to superimpose data, notifications, and other visual indicators to carry out any of the techniques and options presented above and below.

Aspects of this disclosure are directed to methods for manufacturing and methods for operating any of the disclosed systems and devices. In an example, a method is presented for automating collaborative operations between an intelligent transportation management (ITM) system and one or more intelligent electronic shoes. Each IES is fabricated with an upper for attaching to a user's foot, and a sole structure attached to the underside of the upper for supporting the user's foot. This representative method includes, in any order and in any combination with any of the above or below disclosed features and options: transmitting, via a transmitter-detector module that is communicatively connected to a traffic system controller of the ITM system, a prompt signal to a detection tag attached to the IES's sole structure and/or upper; receiving, via the transmitter-detector module, a response signal generated by the detection tag responsive to receiving the prompt signal; determining, via the traffic system controller based on the response signal, the user's current location; identifying a traffic signal that is proximate the user's location and communicatively connected to the traffic system controller; determining the traffic signal's current (first) operating state; and transmitting a command signal by the traffic system controller to the traffic signal to switch from the current (first) operating state to a different (second) operating state.

Additional aspects of the present disclosure are directed to networked control systems and attendant logic for executing automated features of electronic footwear and apparel. For instance, a system is presented for automating collaborative operations between an intelligent transportation management system and an intelligent electronic shoe. The system includes a transmitter-detector module that mounts to a stationary traffic signal pole or similar structure and broadcasts a prompt signal. The system also includes a detection tag that mounts to the sole structure and/or upper of the IES; the detection tag is operable to receive the transmitter-detector module's prompt signal and reactively transmit a response signal back to the transmitter-detector module. A traffic system controller is communicatively connected to the transmitter-detector module and operable to execute memory-stored instructions to perform various operations. The system controller is programmed to: determine a real-time location of the user based on the response signal output by the IES detection tag; determine a current (first) operating state (e.g., green signal phase) of a traffic signal proximate the user's location and communicatively connected to the traffic system controller; and, transmit a phase-change command signal to the traffic signal to switch from the current (first) operating state to a distinct (second) operating state (e.g., red signal phase).

For any of the disclosed systems, methods, and devices, the IES may be equipped with a footwear controller and one or more dynamics sensors, all of which are mounted to the sole structure and/or upper. The dynamics sensor(s) generates and outputs sensor data that is indicative of a speed and/or heading of the IES. The sensor data is transmitted via the IES footwear controller to the traffic system controller, the latter of which uses the received data to determine whether or not to transmit the command signal to the traffic signal for changing the signal's operating state. For instance, the traffic system controller may use the dynamics sensor data to determine an expected incursion time that the IES will likely breach a traffic lane that is regulated by the traffic signal. The traffic system controller will then determine an estimated phase change time as the difference between a current time and a preprogrammed phase change time at which the traffic signal is scheduled to switch from the first operating state to the second operating state. Once calculated, the traffic system controller will determine if the expected incursion time is less than the estimated phase change time; if so, the traffic system controller automatically transmits the phase-change command signal to the traffic signal. The traffic system controller may also determine: (1) if the speed of the IES is substantially equal to zero, and (2) if the heading of the IES is in a direction away from the traffic lane regulated by the traffic signal. If either (1) or (2) returns a positive determination, the traffic system controller is programmed to not transmit the phase-change command signal to the traffic signal.

For any of the disclosed systems, methods, and devices, the traffic system controller may ascertain a current location, speed, and/or trajectory of a motor vehicle in the traffic lane regulated by the traffic signal. The traffic system controller will contemporaneously determine whether or not the user's current location is within a predetermined proximity to the vehicle's current location. In this instance, the phase-change command signal is transmitted to the traffic signal in response to a determination that the user's location is within proximity to the vehicle's location. As yet a further option, the traffic system controller may transmit a pedestrian collision warning signal to the footwear controller responsive to the user's current location being within the predetermined proximity to the vehicle's current location. The footwear controller may respond to receipt of this pedestrian collision warning signal by transmitting one or more command signals to a resident alert system, which is attached to the sole structure/upper and operable to generate a predetermined visible, audible, and/or tactile alert that is perceptible by the user.

For any of the disclosed systems, methods, and devices, the detection tag may include an RF transponder that is mounted to the IES sole structure/upper. In this instance, the prompt signal has a first RF power with a first frequency, and the response signal has a second RF power with a second frequency that is distinct from the first frequency. The prompt signal may include an embedded data set; the response signal retransmits at least a portion of the embedded data set back to the transmitter-detector module. The RF transponder may be equipped with an RF antenna and a frequency filter connected to the RF antenna. The frequency filter is operable to reject any RF signals having an RF power with a frequency that is distinct from the first frequency.

For any of the disclosed systems, methods, and devices, the resident footwear controller may transmit real-time user position and dynamics data to the traffic system controller. The traffic system controller, in turn, fuses the real-time user position data and user dynamics data to determine a pedestrian collision threat value. This pedestrian collision threat value is predictive of intrusion of the user with respect to the motor vehicle's current location and predicted route. The footwear controller may also aggregate and transmit behavioral data that is indicative of the user's historical behavior when wearing the IES. In this instance, the pedestrian collision threat value is further based on fusion of the user position and dynamics data with the behavioral data. As another option, the traffic system controller may collect crowd-sourced data that is indicative of the behavior of multiple individuals in proximity to the user. In this instance, the pedestrian collision threat value is also based on fusion of the behavioral data, user position data, and user dynamics data with the crowd-sourced data. The traffic system controller may also aggregate and transmit environmental data that is indicative of characteristics of the user's surrounding environment. The pedestrian collision threat value may be further based on fusion of the behavioral data, user position data, user dynamics data, and crowd-sourced data with the environmental data.

For any of the disclosed systems, methods, and devices, the traffic system controller may transmit a pedestrian collision warning signal to the footwear controller; the footwear controller may automatically respond by transmitting an activation command signal to a resident haptic transducer thereby causing the haptic transducer to generate a predetermined tactile alert designed to warn the user of an impending collision with a motor vehicle. Optionally or alternatively, the footwear controller may automatically respond to receiving the pedestrian collision warning signal by outputting an activation command signal to a resident audio system causing an associated audio component to generate a predetermined audible alert that is designed to warn the user of the impending collision. As yet a further option, the resident footwear controller may automatically respond to receiving the pedestrian collision warning signal by transmitting an activation command signal to a resident light system causing an associated lighting element to generate a predetermined visible alert that is designed to warn the user of the impending collision with a motor vehicle.

Also presented herein are intelligent electronic footwear and apparel with attendant control logic and resident navigation alert systems for provisioning user navigation assistance via automated tactile, audio, and/or visual feedback. It is envisioned that disclosed IES and IES control systems may be utilized as an input and/or output device for location-based and navigation-based gaming, tours, travel, entertainment, marketing, and the like. In a non-limiting example, a pair of auto-tensioning lace motors packaged on or within the shoe structures of a pair of IES are operated, individually and collaboratively, as tactile force-feedback devices to provide navigation instructions to the user. One representative application would be to provide the user with turn-by-turn instructions via resident “in-shoe” tactile, audio, and/or visual feedback devices to help them navigate from a current “start” position or a designated origin to a desired “end” position or a select succession of stop points.

Another representative application of IES-based navigation assistance includes directions to a physical or virtual object or checkpoint, which may separately be perceived in VR or AR (e.g., accessing content through a SNKRS STASH™ or CRYPTOKICKS™ feature). For instance, a user may be prompted to “hunt” for a pair of virtual CRYPTOKICKS™ that are “hidden” within a brick-and-mortar store by using a photographic “snap” or augmented reality function on a wireless-enabled, handheld computing device. Upon determining the user's real-time location, a set of instructions is derived for circumnavigating the store to locate the target virtual object. These instructions are transformed into a corresponding sequence of haptic cues, each of which is adapted to correspond to a specific action (e.g., go forward, go backward, go left, go right, start, stop, etc.). The haptic cues are then relayed to the user via sequential activation and modulation of the lace motors. For Additional information regarding target searching for tangible and virtual objects using geocaching may be found, for example, in U.S. Patent Appl. Pub. No. 2019/0080342 A1, to Christopher Andon, et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

Aspects of this disclosure are directed to intelligent footwear and apparel for provisioning user navigation assistance via automated tactile, audio and/or visual feedback. In an example, there are presented intelligent electronic shoes for assisting users with navigating to target objects and/or target positions. The IES includes shoe structure, such as a footwear upper mounted onto a sole structure, for attaching to and supporting thereon a user's foot. A navigation alert system, which is mounted on or in the IES shoe structure, is selectively operable to generate visible, audible, and/or haptic outputs responsive to electronic command signals. The IES is also equipped with a wireless communications device operable to wirelessly communicate with a remote computing node, such as provisioning data exchanges with a backend or middleware server-class computer through a piggy-backed session with a handheld smartphone or wireless-enabled tablet computer.

Continuing with the discussion of the above example, a resident or remote controller communicatively connects to the navigation alert system and wireless communications device. The controller is programmed to receive, retrieve, calculate, estimate, etc. (collectively “determine”) location data for the user, and contemporaneously receive, from the remote computing node, location data for the target object/site. Using this information, the controller determines path plan data, including a derived route for traversing from the user's location to the target's location within the designated geographic area. Once the path plan data is acquired, the controller transmits command signals to the navigation alert system to output visual, audio, and/or tactile cues engineered to guide the user along the derived route.

Additional aspects of this disclosure are directed to methods for making and methods for using intelligent footwear and apparel to provision user navigation assistance. In an example, a method is presented for operating an IES to assist a user with navigating to a target object or location in a geographic area. This representative method includes, in any order and in any combination with any of the above or below disclosed features and options: receiving, via a controller through a wireless communications device, location data indicative of a user location of the user; receiving, via the controller through the wireless communications device from a remote computing node, location data indicative of a target location of the target object or site; determining, via the controller, path plan data including a derived route for traversing from the user location to the target location within the geographic area; and transmitting, via the controller to a navigation alert system mounted to the shoe structure, command signals to output visual, audio, and/or tactile cues configured to guide the user along the derived route.

For any of the disclosed systems, methods, and devices, the path plan data may include a sequence of navigation instructions for gaited locomotion from the user's location to the target's location. In this instance, each command signal corresponds to a calibrated navigation alert system cue that is indicative of a respective navigation instruction. The controller may also track real-time movement of the user along the derived route and determine if each new user location in a succession of new user locations along the route corresponds to one of the navigation instructions in the path plan data. In this instance, each command signal is transmitted responsive to a determination that one of the new user locations corresponds to the respective navigation instruction associated with that command signal. Each navigation instruction includes one or more of the following: go forward, go backward, go left, go right, speed up, go up, go down, slow down, start, stop, go back, etc.

For any of the disclosed systems, methods, and devices, the controller may also transmit a start command signal to the navigation alert system to output a visual, audio, and/or haptic cue that is designed to notify the user to begin traversing along the derived route. In the same vein, the controller may also transmit a finish command signal to the navigation alert system to output a visual, audio, and/or haptic cue that is designed to notify the user that they have arrived at the target location. For at least some applications, the target object/site is a virtual object located at a virtual position. The target location may be delineated by a virtual geofence; the controller may respond to the user breaching this geofence by transmitting a finish command signal to the alert system to output a feedback cue that notifies the user they have reached the target object/site.

For any of the disclosed systems, methods, and devices, the navigation alert system includes a haptic transducer that is mounted to the sole structure and operable, in response to command signals, to generate haptic cues to assist with user navigation. In some system architectures, the haptic transducer is a lace motor that is mounted on or inside the shoe structure and is operable to selectively transition a shoelace or strap of the IES between tensioned and untensioned states. The IES may include left and right shoes that attach to and support thereon the user's left and right feet, respectively. In this instance, the haptic transducer includes discrete lace motors mounted to the shoe structures of the left and right shoes. The controller generated command signals activate these two lace motors, individually and cooperatively, to thereby generate the haptic cues for guiding the user along the derived route. As yet a further option, the command signals modulate the motor speed and/or applied tension of the two lace motors to thereby generate haptic cues for guiding the user along the derived route.

The above summary does not represent every embodiment or every aspect of this disclosure. Rather, the foregoing summary merely provides an exemplification of some of the novel concepts set forth herein. The above features and advantages, and other features and attendant advantages of this disclosure, will be readily apparent from the following description of illustrated examples and representative modes for carrying out the present disclosure when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings and appended claims. Moreover, this disclosure expressly includes any and all combinations and subcombinations of the elements and features presented above and below.

The present disclosure is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, and some representative embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that the novel aspects of this disclosure are not limited to the particular forms illustrated in the above-enumerated drawings. Rather, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, combinations, subcombinations, permutations, groupings, and alternatives falling within the scope of this disclosure as encompassed by the appended claims.

This disclosure is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms. There are shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail representative embodiments of the disclosure with the understanding that these representative examples are provided as an exemplification of the disclosed principles, not limitations of the broad aspects of the disclosure. To that extent, elements and limitations that are described in the Abstract, Technical Field, Background, Summary, and Detailed Description sections, but not explicitly set forth in the claims, should not be incorporated into the claims, singly or collectively, by implication, inference, or otherwise.

For purposes of the present detailed description, unless specifically disclaimed: the singular includes the plural and vice versa; the words “and” and “or” shall be both conjunctive and disjunctive; the words “any” and “all” shall both mean “any and all”; and the words “including,” “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” and the like shall each mean “including without limitation.” Moreover, words of approximation, such as “about,” “almost,” “substantially,” “approximately,” “generally,” and the like, may be used herein in the sense of “at, near, or nearly at,” or “within 0-5% of,” or “within acceptable manufacturing tolerances,” or any logical combination thereof, for example. Lastly, directional adjectives and adverbs, such as fore, aft, medial, lateral, proximal, distal, vertical, horizontal, front, back, left, right, etc., may be with respect to an article of footwear when worn on a user's foot and operatively oriented with a ground-engaging portion of the sole structure seated on a flat surface, for example.

1 FIG. 10 10 Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numbers refer to like features throughout the several views, there is shown ina representative article of footwear, which is designated generally atand portrayed herein for purposes of discussion as an athletic shoe or “sneaker.” The illustrated footwear—also referred to herein as “intelligent electronic shoe” or “IES” for brevity—is merely an exemplary application with which novel aspects and features of this disclosure may be practiced. In the same vein, implementation of the present concepts for a wearable electronic device that is worn on a human's foot should also be appreciated as a representative application of the concepts disclosed herein. It will therefore be understood that aspects and features of this disclosure may be integrated into other footwear designs and may be incorporated into any logically relevant type of wearable electronic device worn on any part of the body. As used herein, the terms “shoe” and “footwear,” including permutations thereof, may be used interchangeably and synonymously to reference any relevant type of garment worn on a foot. Lastly, features presented in the drawings are not necessarily to scale and are provided purely for instructional purposes. Thus, the specific and relative dimensions shown in the drawings are not to be construed as limiting.

10 12 14 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 1 2 FIGS.and 2 FIG. 1 2 FIGS.and 3 FIG. FF MF HF LA ME FF FF HF MF HF LA MF FF MF HF The representative article of footwearis generally depicted inas a bipartite construction that is primarily composed of a foot-receiving uppermounted on top of a subjacent sole structure. For ease of reference, footwearmay be divided into three anatomical regions: a forefoot region R, a midfoot region R, and a hindfoot (heel) region R, as shown in. Footwearmay also be divided along a vertical plane into a lateral segment S—a distal half of the shoefarthest from the sagittal plane of the human body—and a medial segment S—a proximal half of the shoeclosest to the sagittal plane of the human body. In accordance with recognized anatomical classification, the forefoot region Ris located at the front of the footwearand generally corresponds with the phalanges (toes), metatarsals, and any interconnecting joints thereof. Interposed between the forefoot and hindfoot regions Rand Ris the midfoot region R, which generally corresponds with the cuneiform, navicular, and cuboid bones (i.e., the arch area of the foot). Heel region R, in contrast, is located at the rear of the footwearand generally corresponds with the talus and calcaneus bones. Both lateral and medial segments Sand Sof the footwearextend through all three anatomical regions R, R, R, and each corresponds to a respective transverse side of the footwear. While only a single shoefor a left foot of a user is shown in, a mirrored, substantially identical counterpart for a right foot of a user may be provided, as shown in. Recognizably, the shape, size, material composition, and method of manufacture of the shoemay be varied, singly or collectively, to accommodate practically any conventional or nonconventional application.

1 FIG. 12 12 12 12 16 18 12 12 12 12 10 12 10 15 12 12 10 20 12 10 12 20 12 18 20 12 With reference again to, the upperis depicted as having a closed toe and heel configuration that is generally defined by three adjoining sections: a toe boxA that covers and protects the toes; a vampB that is located aft of the toe boxA and extends around the lace eyeletsand tongue; and a rear quarterC that is positioned aft of the vampB and includes the rear and sides of the upperthat covers the heel. The upperportion of the footwearmay be fabricated from any one or combination of a variety of materials, such as textiles, foams, polymers, natural and synthetic leathers, etc., that are stitched, adhesively bonded, or welded together to form an interior void for comfortably receiving a foot. The individual material elements of the uppermay be selected and located with respect to the footwearin order to impart desired properties of durability, air-permeability, wear-resistance, flexibility, and comfort, for example. An ankle openingin the rear quarterC of the upperprovides access to the interior of the shoe. A shoelace, strap, buckle, or other mechanism may be utilized to modify the girth of the upperto more securely retain the foot within the interior of the shoeas well as to facilitate entry and removal of the foot from the upper. Shoelacemay be threaded through a series of eyelets in the upper; the tonguemay extend between the laceand the interior void of the upper.

14 12 14 12 14 14 14 22 24 26 22 10 12 22 22 24 10 26 10 24 26 26 10 S1 3 FIG. 1 2 FIGS.and Sole structureis rigidly secured to the uppersuch that the sole structureextends between the upperand a support surface upon which a user stands (e.g., the sidewalk Gillustrated in). In effect, the sole structurefunctions as an intermediate support platform that separates the user's foot from the ground. In addition to attenuating ground reaction forces and providing cushioning for the foot, sole structureofmay provide traction, impart stability, and help to limit various foot motions, such as inadvertent foot inversion and eversion. In accordance with the illustrated example, the sole structureis fabricated as a sandwich structure with a top-most insole, an intermediate midsole, and a bottom-most outsole. Insoleis shown located partially within the interior void of the footwear, firmly secured to a lower portion of the upper, such that the insoleis located adjacent a plantar surface of the foot. Underneath the insoleis a midsolethat incorporates one or more materials or embedded elements that enhance the comfort, performance, and/or ground-reaction-force attenuation properties of footwear. These elements and materials may include, individually or in any combination, a polymer foam material, such as polyurethane or ethyl-vinyl acetate (EVA), filler materials, moderators, air-filled bladders, plates, lasting elements, or motion control members. Outsole, which may be absent in some configurations of footwear, is secured to a lower surface of the midsole. The outsolemay be formed from a rubber material that provides a durable and wear-resistant surface for engaging the ground. In addition, outsolemay also be textured to enhance the traction (i.e., friction) properties between footwearand the underlying support surface.

3 FIG. 3 FIG. 30 10 11 11 30 32 10 34 36 38 10 30 10 10 40 42 10 32 10 30 is a partially schematic illustration of an exemplary IES data network and communications system, designated generally as, for provisioning wireless data exchanges to execute one or more automated footwear features for a pair of intelligent electronic shoesworn by a user or client. While illustrating a single usercommunicating over the IES systemwith a single motor vehicle, it is envisioned that any number of users may communicate with any number of motor vehicles or other remote computing nodes that are suitably equipped for wirelessly exchanging information and data. One or both IESofcommunicatively couples to a remote host systemor a cloud computing systemvia a wireless communications network. Wireless data exchanges between the IESand IES systemmay be conducted directly—in configurations in which the IESis equipped as a standalone device—or indirectly—by pairing and piggy backing the IESonto a smartphone, smartwatch, wireless fidelity (WiFi) node, or other suitable device. In this regard, the IESmay communicate directly with the motor vehicle, e.g., via a short-range wireless communication device (e.g., a BLUETOOTH® unit or near field communication (NFC) transceiver), a dedicated short-range communications (DSRC) component, a radio antenna, etc. Only select components of the IESand IES systemare shown and will be described in detail herein. Nevertheless, the systems and devices discussed herein can include numerous additional and alternative features, and other available hardware and well-known peripheral components, for example, for carrying out the various methods and functions disclosed herein.

3 FIG. 34 34 36 36 38 10 11 10 With continuing reference to, the host systemmay be implemented as a high-speed server computing device or a mainframe computer capable of handling bulk data processing, resource planning, and transaction processing. For instance, the host systemmay operate as the host in a client-server interface for conducting any necessary data exchanges and communications with one or more “third party” servers to complete a particular transaction. The cloud computing system, on the other hand, may operate as middleware for IoT (Internet of Things), WoT (Web of Things), Internet of Adaptive Apparel and Footwear (IoAAF), and/or M2M (machine-to-machine) services, connecting an assortment of heterogeneous electronic devices with a service-oriented architecture (SOA) via a data network. As an example, cloud computing systemmay be implemented as a middleware node to provide different functions for dynamically onboarding heterogeneous devices, multiplexing data from each of these devices, and routing the data through reconfigurable processing logic for processing and transmission to one or more destination applications. Networkmay be any available type of network, including a combination of public distributed computing networks (e.g., Internet) and secured private networks (e.g., local area network, wide area network, virtual private network). It may also include wireless and wireline transmission systems (e.g., satellite, cellular network, terrestrial networks, etc.). In at least some aspects, most if not all data transaction functions carried out by the IESmay be conducted over a wireless network, such as a wireless local area network (WLAN) or cellular data network, to ensure freedom of movement of the userand IES.

10 10 44 14 10 44 44 44 10 10 44 44 2 FIG. Footwearis equipped with an assortment of embedded electronic hardware to operate as a hands-free, rechargeable, and intelligent wearable electronic device. The various electronic components of the IESare governed by one or more electronic controller devices, such as a resident footwear controller() that is packaged inside the sole structureof footwear. The footwear controllermay comprise any one or various combinations of one or more of: a logic circuit, a dedicated control module, an electronic control unit, a processor, an application specific integrated circuit, or any suitable integrated circuit device, whether resident, remote or a combination of both. By way of example, the footwear controllermay include a plurality of microprocessors including a master processor, a slave processor, and a secondary or parallel processor. Controller, as used herein, may comprise any combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware disposed inside and/or outside of the shoe structure of the IESthat is configured to communicate with and/or control the transfer of data between the IESand a bus, computer, processor, device, service, and/or network. The footwear controlleris generally operable to execute any or all of the various computer program products, software, applications, algorithms, methods and/or other processes disclosed herein. Routines may be executed in real-time, continuously, systematically, sporadically and/or at regular intervals, for example, each 100 microseconds, 3.125, 6.25, 12.5, 25 and 100 milliseconds, etc., during ongoing use or operation of the controller.

44 46 14 10 46 48 50 52 12 14 10 2 FIG. Footwear controllermay include or may communicate with a resident or remote memory device, such as a resident footwear memorythat is packaged inside the sole structureof footwear. Resident footwear memorymay comprise semiconductor memory, including volatile memory (e.g., a random-access memory (RAM) or multiple RAM) and non-volatile memory (e.g., read only memory (ROM) or an EEPROM), magnetic-disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory, etc. Long-range communication capabilities with remote networked devices may be provided via one or more or all of a cellular network chipset/component, a satellite service chipset/component, or a wireless modem or chipset/component, all of which are collectively represented atin. Close-range wireless connectivity may be provided via a BLUETOOTH® transceiver, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, an NFC device, a DSRC component, and/or a radio antenna, all of which are collectively represented at. A resident power supply, such as a lithium-ion batterywith plug-in or cable-free (induction or resonance) recharging capabilities, may be embedded within the upperor sole structureof the footwear. Wireless communications may be further facilitated through implementation of a BLUETOOTH Low Energy (BLE), category (CAT) M1 or CAT-NB1 wireless interface. The various communications devices described above may be configured to exchange data between devices as part of a systematic or periodic beacon message that is broadcast in a footwear-to-vehicle (F2V) data exchange and/or a footwear-to-everything (F2X) data exchange, e.g., footwear-to-infrastructure (F2I), footwear-to-pedestrian (F2P), or footwear-to-footwear (F2F).

10 11 54 14 12 44 11 10 Location and movement of the IESand, thus, the usermay be tracked via a location tracking device, which can reside inside the sole structureor the upperor a combination of both. Location can be determined through a satellite-based global positioning system (GPS) or other suitable navigation system. In an example, a GPS system may monitor the location of a person, a motor vehicle or other target object on earth using a collaborating group of orbiting GPS satellites the communicate with a suitable GPS transceiver to thereby generate, in real-time, a time-stamped series of data points. In addition to providing data relating to absolute latitudinal and longitudinal position coordinates of a GPS receiver borne by a target object, data provided via the GPS system may be adapted and used to provide information regarding elapsed time during execution of a designated operation, a total distance moved, an elevation or altitude at a specific location, an elevation change within a designated window of time, a movement direction, a movement speed, and the like. Aggregated sets of the foregoing GPS data may be used by the resident footwear controllerto estimate a predicted route of the user. GPS system data, singly and collectively, may be used to supplement and optionally to calibrate accelerometer-based or other pedometer-based speed and distance data. To this end, information collected by the GPS satellite system may be used to generate correction factors and/or calibration parameters for use by the IESto help ensure accurate sensor data and, thus, optimal system operation.

10 10 10 10 44 10 10 Even without a GPS receiver, the IEScan determine location and movement information through cooperation with a cellular system through a process known as “trilateration.” A cellular system's towers and base stations communicate radio signals and are arranged into a network of cells. Cellular devices, such as IES, may be equipped with low-power transmitters for communicating with the nearest tower, base station, router, or access point. As a user moves with the IES, e.g., from one cell to another, the base stations monitor the strength of the transmitter's signal. When the IESmoves toward the edge of one cell, the transmitter signal strength diminishes for a current tower. At the same time, the base station in the approaching cell detects a strength increase in the signal. As the user moves into a new cell, the towers transfer the signal from one to the next. Resident footwear controllercan determine the location of the IESbased on measurements of the transmitter signals, such as the angle of approach to the cell tower(s), the respective time it takes for individual signals to travel to multiple towers, and the respective strength of each signal when it reaches a corresponding tower. According to other aspects of the present concepts, one or more movement sensing devices may be integrated into the shoe structure to determine dynamic movement (e.g., translation, rotation, velocity, acceleration, etc.) of the IESwith respect to an established datum or reference (e.g., position, spatial orientation, reaction, force, velocity, acceleration, electrical contact, etc.) about or along one or more axes.

1 2 FIGS.and 1 FIG. 10 56 44 56 10 58 14 10 58 60 14 10 58 58 12 14 10 MF S1 With collective reference to, the article of footwearmay be equipped with a resident lighting systemwith one or more lighting devices governed by footwear controllerto selectively illuminate the shoe structure and surrounding areas thereof. Different types of lighting devices may be employed by the lighting system, including light emitting diodes (LEDs), electroluminescent panels (ELP), compact florescent lamps (CFL), high intensity discharge lamps, flexible and inflexible organic LED displays, flat-panel liquid-crystal displays (LCD), as well as other available types of lighting elements. Any number of lighting devices may be disposed on any portion of shoe; as shown, a first lighting deviceis packaged inside the sole structure, located within the midfoot region Rof the footwear. First lighting deviceis positioned immediately adjacent a window() that seals off a frame aperture extending through a peripheral wall of the sole structureon the lateral side of the shoe. This lighting devicemay be operated in an illuminated or “ON” state, a non-illuminated or “OFF” state, a series of illumination intensities (e.g., low, medium and high light outputs), an assortment of colors, and/or an assortment of illumination patterns. With this arrangement, the first lighting deviceselectively illuminates a portion of the upper, a portion of the sole, and a portion of the ground surface Gadjacent the IES.

5 FIG. 1 2 FIGS.and 3 FIG. 5 FIG. 10 30 100 With reference now to the flow chart of, an improved method or control strategy for automating a collaborative operation between a wearable electronic device, such as IESof, and an intelligent transportation management (ITM) system, which may be represented herein by IES data network and communications systemof, is generally described atin accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Some or all of the operations illustrated inand described in further detail below may be representative of an algorithm that corresponds to processor-executable instructions that may be stored, for example, in main or auxiliary or remote memory, and executed, for example, by a resident or remote controller, central processing unit (CPU), control logic circuit, or other module or device, to perform any or all of the above or below described functions associated with the disclosed concepts. It should be recognized that the order of execution of the illustrated operation blocks may be changed, additional blocks may be added, and some of the blocks described may be modified, combined, or eliminated.

100 101 44 10 10 30 101 11 13 11 32 11 70 32 72 74 40 42 11 34 36 11 30 2 FIG. 1 FIG. 3 FIG. 5 FIG. 3 FIG. Methodbegins at terminal blockwith processor-executable instructions for a programmable controller or control module or similarly suitable processor, such as resident footwear controllerof, to call up an initialization procedure for a protocol to govern operation of a wearable electronic device, such as IESof. This routine may be called-up and executed in real-time, continuously, systematically, sporadically, and/or at regular intervals, etc., during use of the intelligent electronic shoe. With reference to the IES data network and communications systemarchitecture of, as a representative implementation of the methodology set forth in, the initialization procedure at blockmay be automatically commenced each time the userapproaches a roadway or roadway intersection, each time the userapproaches or is approached by a vehicle, or each time the useris within detectable proximity to a moving transmitter-detector module(e.g., mounted to the vehicle) or a stationary transmitter-detector module(e.g., mounted to a crosswalk signal post). Utilizing a portable electronic device, such as smartphoneor smartwatch, the usermay launch a dedicated mobile application or a web-based applet that collaborates with a traffic system controller (e.g., represented by remote host system) through an IoAAF middleware node (e.g., represented by cloud computing system) to monitor the user, e.g., as part of a pedestrian collision avoidance procedure. The example illustrated inportrays a singular pedestrian—a female runner—avoiding injury resulting from an accident with a singular automobile—an SAE Level 3, 4 or 5 autonomous vehicle—at the intersection of urban roadway. However, it is envisioned that the IES systemmonitor and protect any number and type of user from any number and type of vehicle or object operating in any logically relevant environment.

10 30 103 40 11 34 10 30 To enhance security, interaction between the IESand IES systemcan be enabled by an authentication process at predefined process block. Authentication may be performed by a primary or secondary source that confirms proper activation of a wearable electronic device and/or a valid identity of the device's user. Upon manual entry of user identification information, such as a password, PIN number, credit card number, personal information, biometric data, predefined key sequences, etc., the user may be permitted to access a personal account, e.g., a “digital locker” operating on the user's smartphonewith a NIKE+® Connect software application and registered with the IoAAF middleware node. Thus, data exchanges can be enabled by, for example, a combination of personal identification input (e.g., mother's maiden name, social security number, etc.) with a secret PIN number (e.g., six or eight-digit code), or a combination of a password (e.g., created by the user) and a corresponding PIN number (e.g., issued by the host system), or a combination of a credit card input with secret PIN number. Additionally, or alternatively, a barcode, RFID tag, or NFC tag may be imprinted on or attached to the IESshoe structure and configured to communicate a security authentication code to the IES system. Other established authentication and security techniques, including blockchain cryptographic technology, can be utilized to prevent unauthorized access to a user's account, for example, to minimize an impact of unsanctioned access to a user's account, or to prevent unauthorized access to personal information or funds accessible via a user's account.

103 11 44 62 10 24 14 62 22 12 10 44 62 12 10 10 2 FIG. As an alternative or supplemental option to manually entering identification information at predefined process block, security authentication of the usermay be automated by the resident footwear controller. By way of non-limiting example, a pressure sensor, which may be in the nature of a binary contact-type sensor switch, may be attached to the footwear(e.g., embedded within the midsoleof the sole structure). This pressure sensordetects a calibrated minimum load on the insoleand thereby establishes the presence of a foot in the upper. Any future automated features of the IESmay first require the controllerconfirm, via prompt signal to the binary pressure sensor, that a foot is present in the upperand, thus, the footwearis in use before transmitting a command signal to initiate an automated operation. While only a single sensor is illustrated in, it is envisioned that the IESmay be equipped with a distributed array of sensors, including pressure, temperature, moisture, and/or shoe dynamics sensors, packaged at discrete locations throughout the shoe structure. In the same vein, foot presence sensing (FPS) may be determined via a variety of available sensing technologies, including capacitance, magnetic, etc. Additional information regarding foot presence sensing can be found, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2017/0265584 A1 and 2017/0265594 A1, to Steven H. Walker, et al., both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties and for all purposes.

62 12 62 44 10 44 44 10 In addition to functioning as a binary (ON/OFF) switch, the pressure sensormay take on a multi-modal sensor configuration, such as a polyurethane dielectric capacitive biofeedback sensor, that detects any of assorted biometric parameters, such as the magnitude of an applied pressure generated by a foot in the upper, and outputs one or more signals indicative thereof. These sensor signals may be passed from the pressure sensorto the resident footwear controller, which then aggregates, filters and processes the received data to calculate a weight value for a current user. The calculated current user weight for the individual presently using the IESis compared to a previously validated, memory-stored user weight (e.g., authenticated to a registered user of an existing personal account). In so doing, the footwear controllercan determine if the current user weight is equal to or within a predetermined threshold range of the validated user weight. Once the current user is authenticated to the validated user, the resident footwear controlleris enabled to transmit command signals to one or more subsystems within the footwearto automate a feature thereof.

103 10 64 10 20 64 14 44 64 40 42 2 FIG. Automated security authentication of a user may be achieved through other available techniques, as part of predefined process block, including cross-referencing characteristics of a current user's foot with previously validated characteristics of an authenticated user's foot. For instance, the representative IESofis assembled with a motorized lacing system utilizing a lace motor (M)that is mounted to the footwearand is selectively actuable to transition the shoelaceback-and-forth between an untensioned (loosened) state and one or more tensioned (tightened) states. Lace motormay be in the nature of a two-way DC electric worm-gear motor that is housed inside the sole structureand controlled by the resident footwear controller. Activation of the lace motormay be initiated via a manually activated switch built into the shoe structure or softkey activation through an app on the user's smartphoneor smartwatch. Control commands may include, but are certainly not limited to, incremental tighten, incremental loosen, open/fully loosen, store “preferred” tension, and recall/restore tension. Additional information pertaining to motorized shoelace tensioning systems can be found, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 9,365,387 B2, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

64 44 62 12 64 44 10 44 46 44 20 64 Motor control of lace motormay be automated via the resident footwear controller, for example, in response to a sensor signal from pressure sensorindicating that a foot has been placed inside the upper. Shoelace tension may be actively modulated through governed operation of the lace motorby the controllerduring use of the IES, e.g., to better retain the foot in response to dynamic user movement. In at least some embodiments, an H-bridge mechanism is employed to measure motor current; measured current is provided as an input to footwear controller. Resident footwear memorystores a lookup table with a list of calibrated currents each of which is known to correspond to a certain lace tension position. By checking a measured motor current against a calibrated current logged in the lookup table, the footwear controllermay ascertain the current tension position of the shoelace. The foregoing functions, as well as any other logically relevant option or feature disclosed herein, may be applied to alternative types of wearable apparel, including clothing, headgear, eyewear, wrist wear, neck wear, leg wear, undergarments, and the like. Moreover, the lace motormay be adapted to automate the tensioning and loosening of straps, latches, cables, and other commercially available mechanisms for fastening shoes.

62 64 10 44 64 20 44 10 64 20 44 Similar to the pressure sensordiscussed above, the lace motormay double as a binary (ON/OFF) switch that effectively enables and disables automated features of the IES. That is, the resident footwear controller, prior to executing an automated feature, may communicate with the lace motorto determine whether the shoelaceis in a tensioned or untensioned state. If the latter, all automated features may be disabled by the resident footwear controllerto prevent the inadvertent initiation of an automated feature while the IESis not in use, for example. Conversely, upon determination that the lace motorplaced the lacein a tensioned state, the footwear controlleris permitted to transmit automation command signals.

64 20 64 14 12 20 64 20 20 44 64 20 44 44 10 44 During operation of the lace motor, the shoelacemay be placed in any one of multiple discrete, tensioned positions to accommodate feet with differing girths or users with different tension preferences. A lace sensor, which may be built into the motoror packaged in the sole structureor upper, may be employed to detect a current tensioned position of the lacefor a given user. Alternatively, real-time tracking of a position of an output shaft (e.g., a worm gear) of the two-way electric lace motoror a position of a designated section of the lace(e.g., a lace spool mated with the motor's worm gear) may be used to determine lace position. Upon tensioning of the lace, the resident footwear controllercommunicates with the lace motorand/or lace sensor to identify a current tensioned position of the lacefor a current user. This current tensioned position may then be compared to a previously validated, memory-stored lace tensioned position (e.g., authenticated to a registered user of an existing personal account). Through this comparison, the footwear controllercan determine if the current tensioned position is equal to or within a predetermined threshold range of the validated tensioned position. After authenticating the current user to the validated user, command signals may be transmitted via the resident footwear controllerto one or more subsystems within the footwearto automate a feature thereof. If the current user cannot be authenticated or validated, the footwear controllermay be disabled such that IES is rendered inoperable.

103 100 105 30 10 34 36 40 42 11 32 40 10 11 12 14 36 32 5 FIG. 3 FIG. Upon completion of the authentication procedure set forth in predefined process block, the methodofproceeds to input/output blockwith processor-executable instructions to retrieve sufficient data to track the motion of one or more target objects moving in a designated environment monitored by the IES system. In accord with the illustrated example of, the IES, remote host system, and/or cloud computing systemmay receive, either directly or through cooperative operation with the smartphoneor smartwatch, location data that is indicative of a current location and velocity (speed and direction) of the userand a current location and velocity (speed and direction) of the motor vehicle. User movement can also, or alternatively, be tracked through a dedicated mobile app or a route planning app running on the user's smartphone. Location and movement of the IESand, thus, the usercan also be determined, for example, through a satellite-based GPS navigation system transceiver built into the upperor sole structure. In addition to tracking real-time user dynamics, a back-office intermediary server, such as cloud computing systemacting as a middleware node, tracks the real-time location and movement of the vehicle, e.g., either through an on-board transmission device or through an app on the driver's personal computing device.

78 11 70 72 78 14 78 80 82 80 82 84 80 82 1 3 FIGS.and 1 FIG. Another technique for ascertaining a user's location and attendant dynamics employs a detection tagthat is borne by the userand communicates with a transmitter-detector module,that is mounted to a nearby structure or on a nearby moving object. In accord with the representative application presented in, the detection tagis embodied as a passive or active radio frequency (RF) transponder that is mounted to an exterior surface of the sole structure. The RF transponderofincludes an omnidirectional (Type I) RF antenna coilthat is fabricated with an electrically conductive material and is shaped to receive and transmit signals in the form of electromagnetic radiation waves. An RF frequency filter, which may be in the nature of a lumped-element Butterworth filter, is electrically connected to the RF antennaand designed for bandpass operability to allow the passing of only those signals that have an RF power with a calibrated (first) frequency or are within a calibrated (first) frequency range. As another option, the frequency filtermay provide band-stop functionality that attenuates and denies the passing of all signals that have an RF power with an undesired frequency or a frequency within any one or more undesired frequency bands, namely outside the calibrated (first) frequency range. An optional dielectric coveris placed over the antenna, filterand attendant detection tag electronics to protect the componentry and increase performance as an RF transponder. Signal exchanges may be routed through a system packet interface (SPI) interface and general-purpose input/outputs (GPIOs). Frequency and phase-tunable signal output may be provided through a phase lock loop (PLL) or direct digital synthesis (DDS) synthesizer, harmonic mixer, and PLL or DDS synthesizer-based local oscillator.

11 13 78 70 32 72 74 78 70 72 78 78 70 3 FIG. 1 FIG. P P P P P P As the userapproaches the roadway intersectionof, the detection tag() receives a frequency swept prompt signal Sor “ping” emitted at regular intervals by a moving transmitter-detector module, which may be packaged proximate the front end of the vehicle, or a stationary transmitter-detector module, which may be hung on a crosswalk signal post, a building wall, or similarly suitable immobile structure. For applications in which the detection tagis composed of a passive RF transponder, the transmitter-detector module,may broadcast the prompt signal Sin a repeating or substantially continuous manner Conversely, for active RF transponder implementations, the incoming prompt signal Smay be emitted in answer to a callback signal broadcast by the detection tagin a repeating or substantially continuous manner. The prompt signal Sis an electromagnetic field wave that has a predetermined (first) RF power level with a standardized (first) downlink frequency. In addition, the prompt signal Scontains an embedded data set with encoded, unique information (e.g., transmitter ID, interrogation code, timestamp, etc.). Data can be superimposed over the swept carrier wave in a narrowband system to help reduce bandwidth overhead that some implementations may create. It is to be noted that a reverse situation is also possible, where the tagbroadcasts and the moduleaccepts and retransmits prompt signal S.

P P R R P R P R R P P 78 70 72 78 70 72 70 72 78 70 72 78 78 52 78 52 78 Upon receipt of this prompt signal S, the detection tagresponsively processes and retransmits the prompt signal Sback to the transmitter-detector module,as an outgoing response signal S. The response signal Sis an electromagnetic field wave that has a distinguishable (second) RF power with a complementary (second) uplink frequency that is distinct from the first frequency. The detection tagmay be equipped with an RF frequency converter to modulate the incoming prompt signal S(e.g., by frequency multiplication of the incoming signal), and an RF signal amplifier that intensifies the response signal S, based on the incoming prompt signal S, prior to transmission of the response signal Sto the transmitter-detector module,. To help ensure that the transmitter-detector module,recognizes the detection tag, the response signal Sparrots at least a portion of the prompt signal's Sembedded data back to the transmitter-detector module,. In order to minimize onboard power usage, the detection tagmay operate in two modes: an idle mode and an active mode. When idling, the detection tagis generally dormant and, thus, does not draw power from the resident power supplyor an off-board power source. By comparison, when active, the detection tagtemporarily extracts power from the resident power supplyor is powered by the incoming prompt signal SAs such, the detection tagdoes not transmit a transparent output signal unless and until an incoming signal with RF power of a predetermined frequency is received.

10 30 32 78 14 12 10 11 10 10 32 30 1 3 FIGS.- P R The intelligent electronic shoeofmay employ alternative means for exchanging data with the IES systemand motor vehicleas part of executing the pedestrian collision threat assessment. Rather than using an RF transponder, the detection tagmay be fabricated with one or more electroactive polymer (EAP) sensors, each of which has a discrete dielectric EAP element mounted to the sole structureor upper. In accord with this example, the incoming prompt signal Sis an electrical field that generates a current with sufficient voltage to induce a physical state change (e.g., an arcing or expansion) of the implanted dielectric EAP element. Through normal use of the IES, the userwill unknowingly reverse the physical state change of the EAP sensor, e.g., by flattening or compressing the dielectric EAP element with their foot. In so doing, the EAP sensor will generate an electric current that causes a response signal Sto be output by the IES. It is also envisioned that the IESmay be enabled to communicate directly with the vehicle, e.g., through a device-to-device wireless ad hoc network (WANET), rather than redirecting all data through the IES systemor other preexisting wireless access point(s).

5 FIG. 4 FIG. 100 107 30 11 13 32 86 30 11 10 13 32 13 11 10 13 11 32 10 11 13 32 11 11 11 11 32 R With reference again to, the methodcontinues to process blockwith processor-executable instructions for transmitting or receiving a preliminary pedestrian collision warning signal that is generated responsive to transmission of a response signal Sthat indicates a user is approaching and may enter a roadway in a manner that may cause a motor vehicle accident. For rudimentary applications, a pedestrian collision warning signal may be automatically broadcast via the IES systemeach time a useris approaching an intersectionat the same time as a motor vehicle, irrespective of secondary variables. As seen, for example, in, a wireless transmitter nodeof the IES systemmay broadcast a preliminary warning signal to a first userA wearing IESwho is approaching and predicted to cross a roadway intersectionA at the same time that a moving vehicleA is expected to traverse through the intersectionA. Even though visually obstructed from each other by a building, a second userB wearing IESand approaching the intersectionA may also receive a preliminary warning signal to notify the userB in an overabundance of caution of the oncoming vehicleA. A pair of IESmay be registered to a visually, physically or mentally impaired userC; due to the increased likelihood that this individual may unknowingly wander into the intersectionA as the vehicleA is passing through, a preliminary pedestrian collision warning signal may be sent to the third userC. Warning signals may be sent to multiple usersA,B,C and any potentially threatening vehicle(s)A such that each party can take remediating action to prevent an inadvertent collision between a pedestrian and an automobile.

30 30 For more sophisticated multimodal applications, the IES systemreceives data from an assortment of sensing devices that use, for example, photo detection, radar, laser, ultrasonic, optical, infrared, damped mass, smart material, or other suitable technology for object detection and tracking. In accord with the illustrated example, the IES systemmay be equipped with, or may receive sensor signals from, one or more digital cameras, one or more range sensors, one or more speed sensors, one or more dynamics sensors, and any requisite filtering, classification, fusion and analysis hardware and software for processing raw sensor data. Each sensor generates electrical signals indicative of a characteristic or condition of a targeted object, generally as an estimate with a corresponding standard deviation. While the operating characteristics of these sensors are generally complementary, some are more reliable in estimating certain parameters than others. Most sensors have different operating ranges and areas of coverage, and some are capable of detecting different parameters within their operating range. Further, the performance of many sensor technologies may be affected by differing environmental conditions. Consequently, sensors generally present parametric variances whose operative overlap offer opportunities for sensory fusion.

109 44 30 10 11 10 11 11 10 44 11 10 30 32 A dedicated control module or suitably programmed processor will aggregate and pre-process a collection of sensor-based data, fuse the aggregated data, analyze the fused data in conjunction with related crowd-sourced data and behavioral data for each target object under evaluation, and estimate whether or not it is statistically probable that a target object will enter a predicted path of a motor vehicle. At input/output block, for example, the resident footwear controllercollects and transmits to the IES system: (1) position data with one or more parameters indicative of real-time position of the IESand, thus, the user(e.g., lat., lon., elevation, geospatial data, etc.), (2) dynamics data with one or more parameters indicative of real-time motion of the IESand, thus, the user(e.g., relative or absolute speed, acceleration/deceleration, trajectory, etc.) and (3) behavioral data indicative of historical behavior of the userwhile wearing IES. Such historical data may include past tendencies of a given user when at a particular intersection or in a particular geographic location, past tendencies of a given user in urban or rural environments generally, past tendencies of a given user in various weather conditions, past tendencies of a given user in specific dynamic scenarios, etc. It is envisioned that the IES controllermay collect and transmit other types of data, including predictive path data indicative of an estimated path for the userbased on available current and historical information. Any such data may be collected and stored locally on the IES, via the IES system, via the vehicle, via neighboring devices and systems, or any combination of thereof.

111 100 30 44 30 30 5 FIG. At predefined process block, the methodofproceeds with processor-executable instructions for a resident or remote controller to apply a sensor fusion module to aggregated raw sensor data to thereby determine movement of a target object in a monitored environment, such as a likelihood of intrusion of a pedestrian with respect to the location and predicted route of a vehicle. IES system, for example, conditions the data received from the resident footwear controllerin order to interrelate received sensor data to ensure overlap with a single, common “reference” timeframe, coordinate system, set of standard measurements, etc. Once the received sensor data is sufficiently conditioned to ensure alignment across related metrics, IES systemmay execute a data association protocol that will classify each respective portion of sensor data, and then correlate related portions or sensor data based on any complementary classifications. IES systemmay then execute a sensor fusion procedure of the conditioned and classified data along with path plan data of the target object and subject vehicle. Sensor fusion may be typified as a computational framework for the aggregation, analysis and alliance of data that originates from heterogeneous or homogeneous sources (e.g., the multiple distinct sensor types discussed above). For the illustrated application, sensor fusion may be embodied as a dedicated software appliance that intelligently combines data from several sensors and corrects for the deficiencies of the individual sensors to calculate more complete, accurate and intelligible information.

30 11 32 34 36 44 76 32 44 48 50 Upon completion of sensor fusion, the IES systemcalculates a pedestrian collision threat value. This collision threat value is prognosticative of a monitored target object behaving in a manner that will more likely than not cause a detrimental event. In accord with the illustrated example, a pedestrian collision threat value may be predictive of intrusion of the userin a manner that will at least partially obstruct a predicted route of the subject vehicleas it relates to a current (real-time) location of the subject vehicle. This pedestrian collision threat value may be based on fusion of user position data, user dynamics data, and user behavioral data. Optionally, a pedestrian collision threat value may also incorporate fusion of the behavioral, user position, and user dynamics data with crowd-sourced data and environmental data. Environmental data may be composed of information that is indicative of a surrounding environment of the user, such as current weather conditions, current vehicle traffic conditions, current pedestrian traffic conditions, and the like. By comparison, crowd-sourced data may be composed of information that is indicative of location, movement and/or behavior of multiple individuals in proximity to the user. The remote computing node receiving the foregoing data may include the remote host system, the cloud computing system, the resident footwear controller, a resident vehicle controllerof the motor vehicle, or a distributed computing combination thereof. Alternatively, the footwear controllermay transmit any or all of the foregoing data through a wireless communications device,to a central control unit of an intelligent transportation management system.

100 113 111 5 FIG. 1 T 1 C T T Methodofproceeds to decision blockto determine if: (1) the pedestrian collision threat value PCTgenerated at process blockis greater than a calibrated threshold value CV; and (2) a current (first) operating state OSof a proximal traffic control signal is equal to any of one or more conflicting signal phases SP. As per the first inquiry, the calibrated threshold value CVmay be determined through empirical testing that provides sufficient quantitative data to establish a statistically significant minimum confidence percentage (e.g., 80%) below which a calculated collision threat value is either inconclusive or probabilistically concludes a collision event will not occur. Available techniques for identifying the calibrated threshold value CVmay include stochastic Gaussian processes, Finite Mixture Model (FMM) estimation protocols, or other normal or continuous probability distribution techniques.

113 C For the latter of the two inquires conducted at decision block, the conflicting signal phases SPincludes any signal phase in which traffic is afforded right-of-way in a manner that does not allow for safe crossing at a given road segment. Traffic signal phasing may be implemented using signal indications, signal heads, and attendant control logic in a traffic system controller that governs and coordinates timing, sequence and duration. Signal phasing settings may be changed as needed, e.g., to accommodate changes in traffic demand, pattern, etc., and in a manner that yields safe and efficient operation for prevailing conditions.

3 FIG. 4 FIG. 11 13 32 13 11 30 70 72 34 88 90 13 34 C C With reference again to, for example, the useris shown running at a speed and trajectory that is estimated to place them within the roadway of the intersectionat approximately the same time that the vehicleis expected to pass through the same intersection. Upon detection of the uservia IES systemusing a transmitter-detector module,, a backend server computer of remote host systemwill identify a traffic signal or set of traffic signals (e.g., tricolored traffic control lightand pedestrian crosswalk signalof) that is/are positioned at a road segment (e.g., intersectionA) proximate the user's location and operable to regulate traffic flow (e.g., eastbound automobile travel and northbound pedestrian travel). Once identified, the remote host systemdetermines the traffic signal's real-time operating state, which may include a proceed state (continuous green light or WALK signal), a caution/yield state (continuous amber light or blinking WALK signal), a do not proceed or stop state (continuous red light or DON'T WALK signal), or transitionary states between any of the foregoing states (green to amber, amber to red, etc.). One or more of these operating states may be characterized as a conflicting signal phase SP. By way of non-limiting example, the proceed state, caution/yield state, and proceed-to-caution transitionary state may all be designated as a conflicting signal phase SP.

113 113 100 101 100 117 113 100 115 86 76 76 32 1 T 1 C If either of the assessments conducted at decision blockcomes back as negative (block=NO), the methodmay circle back to terminal blockand run in a continuous loop; alternatively, methodmay proceed to terminal blockand temporarily terminate. Conversely, upon determining that the pedestrian collision threat value PCTis in fact greater than the calibrated threshold value CVand the current operating state OSof the traffic control signal corresponds to one of the conflicting signal phases SP(block=YES), the methodproceeds to process blockwhereat one or more remediating actions are taken to avoid a collision between a user and a vehicle. By way of example, and not limitation, wireless transmitter nodemay transmit a pedestrian collision imminent notification to the vehicle controller; vehicle controllermay immediately respond by issuing a braking command signal or signals to the vehicle brake system to execute a braking maneuver, e.g., to come to a full stop or to reduce speed to a calculated value that will readily allow an evasive steering maneuver. In addition, or alternatively, the vehiclemay perform other autonomous vehicle functions, such as controlling vehicle steering, governing operation of the vehicle's transmission, controlling engine throttle, and other automated driving functions. Visible and/or audible warnings may be transmitted to the driver using a vehicle center console infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster display or a personal portable electronic device.

115 92 88 32 13 11 11 13 32 13 30 10 11 88 4 FIG. Process blockmay also include processor-executable instructions for automating pedestrian and vehicle traffic flow changes through traffic signal phase modulation. For instance, a traffic system controller (represented inby a traffic signal control cabinet) transmits a command signal to a vehicle traffic control lightto switch from the first operating state (e.g., a green light) to a second operating state (e.g., an amber or red light) in an attempt to stop the motor vehicleprior to entering the intersectionand thereby prevent a collision with the user. As indicated above, traffic signal phase modification may be based on user dynamics data (e.g., speed and heading) suggesting the userwill enter the monitored roadway segmentconcomitant with vehicle dynamics data (e.g., velocity and predicted path) suggesting the vehiclewill enter the same monitored roadway segment. In this regard, the IES systemmay receive and analyze IES dynamics sensor data to identify an expected incursion time that the IESand, thus, the useris estimated to breach the traffic lane regulated by the vehicle traffic control light.

30 11 13 88 92 88 11 13 92 11 13 13 92 115 100 117 IES systemmay also determine an estimated phase change time, calculated as the difference between the current (real) time and a preprogrammed phase change time at which the traffic signal is scheduled to switch from its current operating state to an alternate operating state. Responsive to determination that the expected incursion time is less than the estimated phase change time—the useris expected to enter the intersectionbefore the vehicle traffic control lightis preprogrammed to change from green to red—the traffic signal control cabinetautomatically transmits the phase-change command signal to the traffic control light. Alternatively, if the expected incursion time does not place the userwithin the intersectionbefore a signal phase change, there is no need for the traffic signal control cabinetto intercede and preemptively emit a phase-change command signal. The same can be said for instances in which user dynamics data indicates the userhas stopped, will stop before entering the intersection, and/or has taken on a complementary or alternate heading that will not place them in the intersection. Once again, there is no need for the traffic signal control cabinetto intercede and preemptively emit a phase-change command signal. Upon completion of the remediating actions executed at process block, the methodproceeds to terminal blockand temporarily terminates.

100 115 44 111 113 115 44 56 58 11 32 56 10 32 11 1 3 FIG. In addition to facilitating automation of one or more vehicle operations designed to mitigate or prevent a vehicle-pedestrian collision, methodmay concomitantly facilitate automation of one or more IES features designed to mitigate or prevent a vehicle-pedestrian collision at process block. For instance, a first command signal may be transmitted to a first IES subsystem to execute a first automated feature AFof an intelligent electronic shoe. According to the illustrated example of, resident footwear controllerreceives the pedestrian collision threat value output at block, establishes that the threat value is greater than the threshold value at block, and responsively takes preventative action at block. Resident footwear controllerautomatically responds to this determination (i.e., without any user input or external system prompt) by transmitting a command signal to resident lighting systemto activate the lighting deviceto thereby generate a predetermined light output. The selected color and/or pattern is detectable by the userand, optionally, the driver of vehicle, and is prominent enough to warn of the imminent collision. By way of non-limiting example, resident lighting systemmay output a flashing, bright-red light pattern; use of this particular color and pattern may be restricted to warning the user of potential dangers. Light output of the IESmay be coordinated with light output of the forward-facing headlamps of the motor vehicleto further facilitate notifying the userof a predicted vehicle collision.

100 113 44 10 66 14 22 11 44 66 24 22 66 100 5 FIG. 2 FIG. 2 It is envisioned that any of the disclosed connected wearable electronic devices may automate additional or alternative features as part of the methodologyset forth in. Responding to a positive determination at decision block, footwear controllermay automatically transmit a second command signal to a second subsystem to execute a second automated feature AFof the wearable electronic device. As a non-limiting example, the IESofis shown equipped with a haptic transducerthat is housed inside the sole structurein operative communication to the insole. To alert the userof the pedestrian collision threat assessment, the resident footwear controlleremits a command signal to the haptic transducerto generate a haptic cue (e.g., a perceptible vibration force or a series of vibration pulses) that is transmitted from the midsole, through the insole, and to the user's foot. The intensity and/or pulse pattern output by the haptic transduceras part of methodmay be limited to instances of warning the user of a probable hazard.

3 64 44 20 10 40 An optional third automated feature AFmay include operating the lace motoras a tactile force-feedback device that is selectively activated by the footwear controllerto rapidly tension and release the shoelace. Likewise, the IESmay operate in conjunction with the smartphone(e.g., coordinated flashing of an LED camera light or an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) actuator) or an active apparel element (e.g., coordinated activation of a thermal or haptic device built into a shirt or shorts). As yet another option, haptic feedback can be utilized to provide turn-by-turn directions to the user (e.g., left foot or right foot vibrates at a heightened intensity and/or with a designated pulse pattern to indicate a left turn or right turn). In the same vein, haptic feedback can be employed in a similar fashion to direct a user along a pre-selected route or to warn a user against taking a particular route (e.g., deemed unsafe). Additional information regarding footwear and apparel with haptic feedback can be found, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017/0154505 A1, to Ernest Kim, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

10 68 12 12 44 68 68 44 64 20 10 10 1 FIG. Optionally, the IESmay be provided with an audio system, which is represented inby a miniaturized audio speakerthat is attached to the rear quarterC of the upper. Resident footwear controller, upon confirming that the pedestrian collision threat value is greater than the calibrated threshold value, automatically transmits a command signal to the audio system speakerto generate a predetermined sound output. For instance, the audio system speakermay blare “WARNING!” or “STOP!” at an increased sound level. As another option, footwear controllermay command the lace motorto repeatedly tighten/loosen the shoelaceas a signal/cue, e.g., of an oncoming automobile. Footwear-to-infrastructure communications may be enabled (and coordinated) to allow the IESto communicate with a networked “smart city” controller that, in turn, can modulate street lighting or traffic light changes to improve safety for a walker or runner. Conversely, the “smart city” controller may communicate with the IESto warn the user they are coming up to a pedestrian crossing with a “Do Not Walk” sign signaling that pedestrians must yield the right of way to oncoming vehicles.

64 44 10 44 40 42 10 Light features built into the shoe may also be used during an athletic event (e.g., coordinated to match the colors of a user's favorite athletic team) or while exercising (e.g., to light roadway while running at night). Security features may also be installed to render the IES unusable to a non-authenticated party. For instance, the lace motormay be rendered inoperable by the footwear controllerupon determining that the person wearing the IESis an unauthorized user. In tandem, the controllermay transmit an electronic alert to the user's smartphoneor smartwatchnotifying them of the potential theft or misuse of the IES.

10 10 62 44 10 32 10 10 Optional configurations may provide intelligent electronic footwear or apparel that is adapted for instructional purposes. As an example, a user or instructor can wear the IESwhen helping to teach a person how to drive an automobile. For instance, the IESmay be configured such that an instructor can press their feet, through the shoe, hard to a passenger compartment floor panel to simulate depressing a brake pedal. A built-in pressure sensordetects the instructor's foot gesture, outputs a corresponding signal to the footwear controller, and the IEScommunicates with the vehiclebrake control module (BCM) to activate the vehicle brakes. In addition, or alternatively, the IESmay communicate with a pair of intelligent electronic shoes worn by the student, transmitting instructions to provide sensory feedback to the student that they should be using their foot to physically depress the brake pedal and thereby apply the vehicle's brake system. In addition to teaching a student how to drive, haptic, auditory and/or visual feedback from the IESmay be employed to teach a wearer of the footwear a series of steps in a dance routine, proper transfer of body weight when swinging a golf club or baseball bat, proper timing, gait, and step count for executing hurdles, etc.

11 10 44 11 213 232 234 10 213 215 213 213 232 234 215 10 234 213 232 232 10 234 2 FIG. 6 FIG. 6 FIG. The remote computing node may take on alternative forms from those described above, such as a central server computer or a parallel HMI of a residential or commercial security system. When the userof the IESenters a predetermined location (e.g., an entry way, a hallway, a room, etc.) or is within a pre-selected proximity of the facility being monitored (e.g., delineated by an active geofence), the resident footwear controllerofmay transmit a deactivation command signal to the security system server computer or HMI such that the usermay enter the facility without having to manually deactivate the security system. In, for example, a representative useris shown approaching the front entrance of a buildingthat is secured by a commercial security system (represented by a non-contact, video-monitored entry panel). One or both of the IESworn by the useremits an invisible geofencethat encircles the user. Once the useris sufficiently close to the buildingfor the video-monitored entry panelto breach or otherwise penetrate the IES-generated geofence, the IESautomatically transmits a security authentication signal to the security system entry panel. In so doing, the useris granted access to the building, e.g., as portrayed inby the automated opening of the security door at the entrance of the building. Alternative system configurations may use other communication means, including any of those described above and below, to facilitate interaction between the IESand security system.

10 44 313 332 334 313 10 7 FIG. As yet a further example, the remote computing node may be in the nature of a home automation system (or “smart home”) that controls the climate, lighting, blinds, appliances, etc., of a user's home. When a user of the IESenters or exits a predetermined location (e.g., a front door, a garage, a hallway, a room, etc.), or enters or exits a pre-selected proximity of the residence being regulated by the home automation system, the resident footwear controllermay transmit one or more command signals to the home automation system to lock or unlock a door, activate or deactivate a room light, increase or decrease a temperature of a thermostat, or a combination of the foregoing features. In, for example, a representative useris shown walking around a homewith various appliances and devices and subsystems that are controlled, in whole or in part, by a residential home automation system (represented by a WiFi-enabled touchscreen gateway panel). Responsive to the usermoving from a first room to a second room (e.g., walking from the living room into the bedroom), the IESmay automatically transmit a series of command signals to: (1) illuminate the lights in the second room; (2) darken the lights in the first room; (3) switch off one or more devices (e.g., television) in the first room; and (4) modulate the temperature in the second room.

10 10 11 10 32 11 10 11 11 40 32 11 32 10 11 32 32 2 FIG. 3 FIG. IESofmay be considered particularly useful for interacting with a fully assisted or a fully autonomous motor vehicle, such as those classified as Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Levels 3, 4 or 5 vehicles. In addition to enabling controller-authenticated and automated locking, unlocking, and motor start of a vehicle, the IESmay communicate with a route planning module (RPM) and, in turn, a powertrain control module (PCM), brake system control module (BCM), etc., to automatically coordinate transporting the userof the IESto a predetermined location. In a specific example, motor vehicleofmay propagate a unique geofence signal in order to pair with multiple users wearing compatible IES. If useris within the boundary of the vehicle's geofence, the IESresponds by automatically generating a first visual, audible and/or haptic output to notify the userthey have breached the geofence. The usermay then initiate a dedicated mobile app operating on their smartphoneto identify a current real-time location of the motor vehicle, which may be displayed on a GPS or navigation map application. When the useris within close proximity of the motor vehicle(e.g., ten (10) meters or less), the IESmay generate a second visual, audible and/or haptic output to notify the userthey are within a predetermined proximity to the vehicleand, thus, should be able to visually identify the vehicle.

11 32 44 10 32 32 11 11 11 11 32 11 11 11 11 Once the userlocates the motor vehicle, a two-way authentication process will take place between the resident footwear controllerof the IESand a central electronic control unit (ECU) of the motor vehicleor a server computer of a backend of middleware node facilitating the F2V operation. Once verified, the motor vehiclewill signal to the userthat they have the option to enter the vehicle's passenger compartment. A validation key may concomitantly issue to the uservia the IoAAF system; usercan retrieve the key via the aforementioned smartphone app. If the userelects to enter the motor vehicle, the usermay be taken to a specified or unspecified location (an “Unlock Location”) where a reserved product is waiting for the user. Once the userarrives at the Unlock Location, the usermay be required to input the validation key to access to the reserved product.

8 FIG. 1 2 FIGS.and 8 FIG. 1 2 FIGS.and 8 FIG. 400 410 440 410 10 410 410 412 414 12 14 10 410 410 420 412 418 420 412 Illustrated inis a representative electronic navigation assistance systemwith an intelligent electronic shoe (or “footwear”)that communicates with a wireless-enabled, handheld computing device (or “smartphone”)to provision navigation assistance to a user of the IES. While differing in appearance, it is envisioned that the features and options disclosed above with reference to the IESofmay be incorporated, singly or in any combination, into the example IESof, and vice versa. As a point of similarity, the IESis portrayed as an athletic shoe composed of a foot-receiving uppermounted on top of a subjacent sole structure, each of which may take on any of the options and alternatives described above in regard to their respective upperand sole structurecounterparts. Like the footwearof, the IESofmay be divided into multiple adjoining anatomical regions (e.g., forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot regions) and vertically bifurcated into mediolateral sections (e.g., lateral and medial segments). Another point of similarity may be drawn from the closed toe and heel construction of the footwear, as well as the shoelacefor securely retaining a foot within the upper, and a tonguethat extends between the laceand the interior void of the upper.

410 460 415 412 412 415 462 420 462 464 412 420 416 412 464 462 420 415 412 8 FIG. As another overlapping point of similarity, the IESofis shown equipped with a controller-automated tensioning systemfor selectively adjusting the size of an ankle opening (or “throat”)in the rear quarter portion of the upperto thereby tighten and loosen the upperaround a user's foot. In accord with the illustrated example, a diameter of the openingis decreased and increased by a lace motorapplying tension to and releasing tension from the shoelace, respectively. The lace motoris stowed inside a protective outer motor housing, which is securely mounted onto an exterior surface of the upper'srear quarter portion. Shoelaceis shown threaded through longitudinally elongated lacing guides, passing through an internal channel in the upper, and extending into the motor housingof the lace motor. As indicated above, the shoelacemay be replaced with a strap, cable, latch, pneumatic or hydraulic bladder, or any other mechanism apt for modulating the size of the openingand girth of the upper.

460 420 412 462 420 420 466 464 462 470 414 462 466 468 466 420 466 420 8 FIG. Automated tensioning systemapplies tension to shoelace—in response to various user inputs and system control commands—in order to tighten and loosen the upper. By way of non-limiting example, lace motorofwinds the laceonto and, conversely, unwinds the shoelacefrom a lace spoolinternal to the motor housing. The lace motormay be embodied as a bidirectional direct current (DC) electric stepper motor that is powered by a rechargeable energy storage system (RESS), such as a lithium-ion battery module packaged inside the IES sole structure. Activation of the lace motorapplies torque to the lace spoolvia rotation of an interconnecting motor shaft. Rotation of the spoolin a first (e.g., clockwise) direction functions to coil and, thus, apply tension to the shoelace, whereas rotation of the spoolin a second (e.g., counterclockwise) direction functions to uncoil and, thus, release tension from the shoelace. Alternative architectures may employ different motor, transmission, and/or lace-winding devices.

410 460 410 440 462 440 472 474 440 472 While it is envisioned that the IESmay be fabricated with a resident HMI, such as a control button set or touchscreen interface, for governing operation of the automated tensioning system, IESmay wirelessly communicate with the handheld computing devicefor selective operation of the lace motor. For instance, the smartphonemay download and run a dedicated “lacing control” software application (app). A high-definition OLED touchscreen display deviceof the smartphonemay be used to display information to, and to receive control inputs from, a user. The dedicated mobile appprovides a graphical user interface for presenting soft control buttons, radio buttons, menus, track pads, etc., to initiate control commands in response to control inputs made by the user. Example control commands may include, but are not limited to: left shoe selection, right shoe selection, incremental tighten of a selected shoe or both shoes, incremental loosen of a selected shoe or both shoes, fully open/loosen both shoes, store a current tension, recall a memory-stored tension, etc.

9 9 FIGS.A throughD 9 FIG.A 440 410 480 474 462 460 460 462 420 illustrate the smartphonecommunicating with the IESto execute a user-navigation assistance protocol to aid users with locating target objects and/or target locations. In, for example, a search session is initiated for locating a target virtual object, such as a cryptographic digital assetassociated with a purchased pair of athletic shoes, that is “hidden” at a virtual location within a designated geographic region, such as a metropolitan city (e.g., Manhattan, NY). Touchscreen display devicepresents the user with an introduction screen and an option to participate in the search. Alternatively, the user may be prompted to “hunt” for a target virtual object in a brick-and-mortar store by using a photographic “snap” or augmented reality function on their handheld personal computing device. In this instance, a KickID™ associated with the purchased pair of shoes may be provided to the user as part of a retail transaction. However, the user may then be asked to separately find a hidden CRYPTOKICK™ hidden within the store or designated area before the digital asset can be transferred to their personal locker (i.e., the cryptographic key and the virtual object must both be separately acquired before the transfer occurs). Obtaining the cryptographic key may enable an AR engine associated with a user device to initiate a game in which the CRYPTOKICK™ associated with that key is locally hidden and available for the user to locate. Commencement of the search may be relayed to the user via a first tactile cue, such as a prolonged activation of lace motorsin both of the user's shoes, that is output through a resident navigation alert system, e.g., via select use of automated tensioning system. An advantage to using automated tensioning systemover a conventional haptic transducer is the multimodal application of user-perceptible tactile sensations: vibration of the lace motorand tensioning/releasing of the shoelace.

474 440 410 440 473 481 474 410 482 410 410 472 462 410 460 462 462 9 FIG.B 9 FIG.B Upon initiation of the search for the target virtual object/location, the display deviceof the smartphonemay display a real-time GPS location for the IESand, thus, the user., for example, portrays smartphonerunning a dedicated “shoe hunt” mobile appwith a graphical depiction of a user avatar. Display devicemay depict movement of the IESand user through concurrent movement of the user's avatar on a street-level mapof the city and locations of other users, landmarks, and natural makers proximate the IES. To assist the user with locating the hidden target object, the resident navigation alert system automates operation of an audio system, light system, and/or haptic transducer system of the IESto generate tactile, audio, and/or visual cues perceptible by the user. Continuing with the above example, the mobile appmay track the user's real-time movement along a designated route to the target object/location. While traversing this route, the user may be provided with turn-by-turn navigation instructions to help them find their target. For instance, in, a second tactile cue, such as a slow-pulsed, low-tension activation of lace motorin the user's right shoe, is output through the resident navigation alert system of IESvia operation of the automated tensioning systemto inform the user to make a right-hand turn at their current location. In the same vein, the user may be informed, in real time, to make a left-hand turn at a given location via selective activation of a lace motorin the user's left shoe (without activating the lace motorin the user's right shoe).

462 460 462 9 FIG.C 9 FIG.D After commencing the search, one or more secondary users may assist the primary user in their search for the virtual target, offering various types of assistance. As the user location becomes closer in proximity to the target object/location, a third tactile cue (e.g., ramped pulsed activation of lace motorshown in) output through the navigation alert system via collaborative operation of the automated tensioning systeminforms the user to go forward/ahead from their current location. Once the primary user reaches the location of the virtual object, as indicated at, the virtual target object can be accessed. Access to the virtual object may be automatic or may require additional actions on the part of the user. Completion of the search may be relayed to the user via a fourth tactile cue, such as a rapid, high-tension pulsed activation of the lace motorsin both of the user's shoes, which is output through the resident navigation alert system.

In some instances, the CRYPTOKICK™ may not be originally linked to a physical product, but instead may be gifted to the user as part of a brand promotion campaign, event, moment, or experience. For example, a user at a sporting event may be required to search for a CRYPTOKICK™ within the confines of the event's stadium, e.g., using a mobile app and a digital camera on a smartphone device. In this example, the GPS associated with the smartphone device may further constrain optical recognition capabilities to within a particular geofenced area. The target object may be virtually disguised in a billboard advertisement, located at a specific seat, hidden in a designated area, etc. Once the CRYPTOKICK™ is located, the user may be prompted to scan a unique code, such as the barcode on their ticket to the event. This two-part action may then transfer a token uniquely provisioned for that ticket to the user's locker. Following the event, the promotion organizer may reclaim any unclaimed KickIDs for subsequent use in other promotional events.

10 FIG. 3 FIG. 1 FIG. 8 FIG. 10 FIG. 5 FIG. 10 FIG. 11 10 410 500 100 500 With reference now to the flow chart of, an improved method or control strategy for automating navigation assistance to a user, such as userof, through operation of intelligent electronic footwear or apparel, such as IESofor IESof, is generally described atin accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Some or all of the operations illustrated inand described in further detail below may be representative of an algorithm that corresponds to processor-executable instructions that may be stored, for example, in main or auxiliary or remote memory, and executed, for example, by a resident or remote controller, central processing unit (CPU), control logic circuit, or other module or device, to perform any or all of the above or below described functions associated with the disclosed concepts. It should be recognized that the order of execution of the illustrated operation blocks may be changed, additional blocks may be added, and some of the blocks described may be modified, combined, or eliminated. For instance, it is envisioned that the features and options disclosed above with reference to the methodofmay be incorporated, singly or in any combination, into the methodof, and vice versa.

500 501 44 10 410 501 501 101 103 2 FIG. 1 FIG. 8 FIG. 5 FIG. Methodbegins at terminal blockwith processor-executable instructions for a programmable controller or control module or similarly suitable processor, such as resident footwear controllerof, to call up an initialization procedure for a protocol to automate navigation assistance to a user using intelligent electronic footwear or apparel, such as IESofor IESof. The initialization procedure at blockmay be initiated via a manually entered prompt, such as by a user opening a corresponding mobile app operating on the user's handheld computing device or a central system operator initiating a “treasure hunt” feature for a group of users. Alternatively, the initialization procedure may be automatically commenced by a resident controller or a remote computing node, such a server-class computer responsible for conducting searches for target objects/locations. Terminal blockmay optionally incorporate any of the initialization and authentication features described above with respect to operationsandof.

500 501 503 505 503 505 Methodadvances from terminal blockto input/output blocksandto ascertain a desired or current location of the user and a predetermined or estimated location of a target object/site. A desired user location may be preset as a designated start location, such as starting line, a communal meeting place, a kiosk or terminal for completing a purchase of a pair of shoes, etc. Alternatively, the user's current real-time location may be determined, as described above, and set as the starting position for purposes of navigation assistance at block. Likewise, the location of a target object/site may be predetermined and retrieved, e.g., from a remote computing node, a third-party handheld computing device, a resident cache or main memory, etc., at block. On the other hand, target location may be dynamic or random or may be manually selectable via a suitable HMI.

507 At subroutine block, an in-shoe footwear controller or a smartphone processing unit, or both, receives, estimates, identifies, and/or retrieves (collectively “determines”) path plan data for a current trip of the user. Path plan data may comprise any real-time, crowd-sourced, map-sourced, and/or historical data suitable for completing a desired trip. At a minimum, the path plan data may include a preset origin or real-time start position, a desired, dynamic, or randomly determined final destination, one or more intermittent stops, and a predicted route traversing from user origin to user destination. For a standalone architecture, the IES may be equipped with an onboard navigation system that utilizes a GPS transceiver in cooperation with navigation software and geolocation mapping services to obtain geographic topography, geodetic data, and traffic information associated with the user's current location.

507 509 Establishing a predicted path for a current trip may necessitate forecasting one or more upcoming maneuvers that will be required to complete the trip. This may include flagging any potentially impediments or hazards, as well as identifying one or more alternative routes. For instance, blockmay predict a primary (first) route for completing an upcoming maneuver and, using a similar process, one or more (first, second, third, . . . ) alternate routes for reaching the user destination. Once the path plan is created, a respective sequence of navigation instructions for gaited locomotion (walking, running, etc.) from the user's location to the target's location may be determined for each route, as indicated at subroutine block. These navigation instructions may include, singly and in any combination: go forward, go backward, go left, go right, speed up, slow down, start, stop, go back, etc. Each navigation instruction may be associated with a respective location along the derived route; the list of navigation instruction and their associated locations may be saved in local cache memory for ease of retrieval.

500 509 511 56 68 1 2 FIGS.and Methodcontinues from subroutine blockto database blockand transforms each navigation instruction into a corresponding controller-generated command signal. A command signal correlates a calibrated navigation alert system cue to a given navigation instruction. A listing of available navigation instructions and their corresponding alert system output and related command signal may be stored in and concomitantly retrieved from a server farm via a suitable database management system (DBMS). As indicated above, commence search may correspond to a first tactile cue, which may correspond to a prolonged activation of lace motors in the user's shoes. Contrastingly, turn right may correspond to a second tactile cue, which may correspond to a slow-pulsed, low-tension activation of a lace motor in the user's right shoe with no corresponding tactile output by the user's left shoe. These cues may be supplemented with complementary visual and audible outputs, e.g., via resident lighting systemand resident speaker systemof.

10 FIG. 10 FIG. 513 509 500 515 501 With continuing reference to, processor-executable instructions are provided at input/output blockfor a footwear controller to transmit command signals to the footwear's resident navigation alert system to output visual, audible, and/or tactile cues designed to guide the user along the derived route. To ensure that turn-by-turn instructions are provided at the appropriate time along a given route, the controller may systematically track the user's real-time or near real-time movement as the user moves along the derived route. During user tracking, the controller may continually assess if each new user location in a succession of new user locations along the derived route corresponds to one of the navigation instructions provided at subroutine block. In this instance, a command signal may be output via the controller as a direct response to a determination that the user's “new” location corresponds to the respective navigation instruction associated with that command signal. Once the foregoing features are completed, the methodofmay advance to terminal blockand terminate or may loop back to terminal blockand run in a continuous loop.

10 410 44 440 10 410 1 FIG. 8 FIG. 1 FIG. 8 FIG. Disclosed adaptive apparel and footwear, including IESofand IESof, may be employed to assist a user with navigating to a physical location of a stationary and dynamic object. For instance, the resident footwear controllerofor the handheld computing deviceofmay communicate with a location tracking device of a logistics-class (delivery) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to track the real-time movement of the UAV and/or ascertain a delivery location for a package being airlifted by the UAV. This information may be aggregated and processed, as described above, to provide the user with turn-by-turn instructions to locate the UAV. The IES,may also be employed to identify the user's location to the UAV and/or automatically authenticate the user to the UAV before the package will be released. A similar approach may be employed to guide a user to meet a passenger drone (“flying taxi”) or a commercial-class air taxi or a hub for solicitation of air transportation.

Similar to assisting with package deliveries via UAV, disclosed adaptive apparel and footwear may be adapted for in-store and curbside pickup of goods (e.g., buy online, pickup in-store (BOPIS)). In a non-limiting example, a user may place an online, telephone, or app order, e.g., for food or goods, and travel to a designated pickup location (internal or external to a brick-and-mortar store) for retrieving the order. Upon arrival, the IES may automatically transmit a message to a store kiosk, central server, or associate notifying the retailer of the user's arrival. The store associate transports the order to the user's location, which may be provided via any of the manners disclosed herein; the associate employs a countertop or handheld point-of-sale (POS) device connected with the IES and/or IOAAF system to locate, identify, and/or wireless authenticate the user before transferring the items.

Further options for use of disclosed adaptive apparel and footwear include a physical activity, such as a running challenge experience, that is enhanced via augmented reality, such as a user competing with another user's virtual self (“ghost”). For instance, a pair of users selects a designated location, course, or distance to conduct a virtual race. On a first date and/or time, a first user may travel to the designated location/course and finish the race (e.g., completes two laps around a 1-mile track at a time of approximately ten minutes); this data may be collected and stored by the first user's IES. At a subsequent date/time, a second user travels to the designated location/course and begins the race to virtually compete with the first user. As the second user is completing the race, the IES may track their progress and provide them with regular or real-time updates. For instance, after completing one lap, the second user is informed via their IES that their first laps' time is slower than that of the first user; a notification may be provided to speed up if the wish to beat the first user. Such information may be provided by tactile feedback, light display, and/or audio output of the IES. The second user's race time and related data may be collected and stored by their IES and transmitted to the first user's IES. Additional information regarding enhancing physical exercise using AR can be found, for example, in U.S. Patent App. Pub. No. 2016/0346612 A1, to Craig Rowley, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

The foregoing concept may be employed for other one-on-one and team-related physical activities, such as golf, baseball, basketball, football, etc. Some of these physical activities may be assisted with other sensing and monitoring systems and other wearable electronics, such as a head-worn heads-up display (HUD) system. Additional information regarding the use of electronic tracking systems and wearable electronics to convey data related to a sporting event can be found, for example, in commonly owned U.S. Patent Appl. Pub. Nos. 2020/0078653 A1, 2017/0340948 A1, 2017/0157492 A1, and 2017/0157490 A1, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its respective entirety and for all purposes.

Disclosed adaptive apparel and footwear may also be employed as part of a AR or VR team contest, such as a product unlock experience where a first team competes with one or more other teams to secure a limited-release item. In accord with a more specific, non-limiting example, a first user travels to a command center that includes a map with the location of a hidden item. The first user communicates with a second user via IES feedback. The second user is located in a puzzle environment; the first user located in the command center transmits navigation instructions to the second user to help them navigate to the prize. The first and second users are a team or a portion of a team that is competing with other teams to be the first to located and unlock this prize.

Further options may include using disclosed adaptive apparel and footwear feedback to enable users to greet or otherwise communicate with one another, such as a virtual handshake or greeting replacement, e.g., in scenarios where physical contact is not available or is undesirable. Moreover, IoAFF feedback may be employed to assist users with communicating with other users to warn of encroachment into personal space (e.g., to help maintain social distancing. IoAFF feedback may be employed for detecting if a first user is unexpectedly or quickly approaching a second user from a determined direction. An IES user, for example, may be warned that another person is approaching them from behind or from a blind spot to rob or hurt them or, alternatively, as part of a race or competition.

Aspects of this disclosure may be implemented, in some embodiments, through a computer-executable program of instructions, such as program modules, generally referred to as software applications or application programs executed by any of a controller or the controller variations described herein. Software may include, in non-limiting examples, routines, programs, objects, components, and data structures that perform particular tasks or implement particular data types. The software may form an interface to allow a computer to react according to a source of input. The software may also cooperate with other code segments to initiate a variety of tasks in response to data received in conjunction with the source of the received data. The software may be stored on any of a variety of memory media, such as CD-ROM, magnetic disk, bubble memory, and semiconductor memory (e.g., various types of RAM or ROM).

Moreover, aspects of the present disclosure may be practiced with a variety of computer-system and computer-network configurations, including multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable-consumer electronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. In addition, aspects of the present disclosure may be practiced in distributed-computing environments where tasks are performed by resident and remote-processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed-computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote computer-storage media including memory storage devices. Aspects of the present disclosure may therefore be implemented in connection with various hardware, software or a combination thereof, in a computer system or other processing system.

Any of the methods described herein may include machine readable instructions for execution by: (a) a processor, (b) a controller, and/or (c) any other suitable processing device. Any algorithm, software, control logic, protocol or method disclosed herein may be embodied as software stored on a tangible medium such as, for example, a flash memory, a CD-ROM, a floppy disk, a hard drive, a digital versatile disk (DVD), or other memory devices. The entire algorithm, control logic, protocol, or method, and/or parts thereof, may alternatively be executed by a device other than a controller and/or embodied in firmware or dedicated hardware in an available manner (e.g., implemented by an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), a field programmable logic device (FPLD), discrete logic, etc.). Further, although specific algorithms are described with reference to flowcharts depicted herein, many other methods for implementing the example machine-readable instructions may alternatively be used.

Aspects of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments; those skilled in the art will recognize, however, that many modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the precise construction and compositions disclosed herein; any and all modifications, changes, and variations apparent from the foregoing descriptions are within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the present concepts expressly include any and all combinations and subcombinations of the preceding elements and features.